Prudhoe ‘forest school’ nursery venture launches with five-figure funding

A Northumberland childcare business has launched after securing funding from the North East Rural Growth Network (NERGN).

My Little Kingdom, an outdoor-led ‘forest school’ and nursery, has opened its doors in Prudhoe after receiving a grant of £64k from the network.

Founded by friends Emma Nelson and Sarah-Jane Sewell, the day nursery and forest school comprises a baby room called Cherry Blossom, a preschool room known as Little Conkers and the Sweet Chestnuts room which will cater to two to three-year olds.

Located in Prudhoe’s Kingdom Hall, the nursery aims to offer an outdoor learning environment, and plans to create a total of 26 new jobs within three years.

Katy McIntosh, Rural Growth Network manager at Advance Northumberland, commented: “It has been wonderful to come back and visit the site now that the renovations are complete.

“The changes that Emma and Sarah Jane have made to the building are of a very high standard. The thoughtful planning of the outdoor space will enable the business to accommodate children in a natural learning environment.

“The Rural Growth Network was designed to help SMEs in our region to realise their potential, creating jobs for local people. My Little Kingdom will provide a much-needed local service and we have been proud to work with the business from its inception to seeing it welcoming children into its care.”